Torre Velasca in Mixed Reality: Milan comes to life with Metagate

A new way to tell architecture

Metagate continues to explore the potential of Mixed Reality by developing experiences capable of making complex content accessible in an intuitive and engaging way.

For the Fondazione Pasquinelli, which from April 14 to 24 hosts the exhibition "The architect Enrico Peressutti and his artist friends", it dedicated its latest experience to the Torre Velasca with the aim of transforming a Milanese architectural icon into an immersive journey, capable of combining dissemination and interaction.

The project was built starting from two fundamental 3D models: the map of Milan’s city center and the Torre Velasca. These elements are not simple static objects, but become part of a dynamic narrative sequence, designed to guide the user step by step within the experience on Meta Quest 3.

The artwork is by Marco Petrus (Torre Velasca 2001)

A guided entry between space and narrative

Once the headset is worn, the user is immediately immersed in a clean and focused environment, where a Start panel represents the entry point to the experience. This first element is not only functional, but marks the beginning of a sequence designed to progressively build engagement.

At launch, the map of Milan’s city center appears in space through a materialization effect, synchronized with an introductory audio dedicated to the Torre Velasca. This initial moment is crucial: the combination of sound and visuals creates an immediate impact, allowing the user to orient themselves and understand the context naturally.

From urban context to architectural focus

Once it has fully appeared, the map begins to move. It slowly rotates, drawing attention to the point of interest, until it stops and displays an identification label on the Torre Velasca. This step represents a clear narrative transition: from the city to the building.

Subsequently, the map gradually shrinks until it disappears, leaving space for the main subject of the experience. The Torre Velasca then appears with a materialization effect, reinforcing visual continuity and maintaining the user’s attention.

This step is essential as it marks the change of scale: from the urban overview to architectural detail.

Interaction and in-depth exploration in Mixed Reality

Once it appears, the tower enters a slight rotation, allowing the user to observe it from different angles. When the movement stops, a series of interactive info points distributed across key parts of the structure become visible.

These pins represent the educational core of the experience. Each point is designed to explore a specific aspect of the Torre Velasca: structure and materials, height and function, the distinctive overhanging volume, the window system, and architectural connections.

By selecting an info point, the user activates multimedia content combining detailed images and explanatory audio. This approach transforms potentially technical content into an accessible experience, maintaining a balance between information and engagement.

Mixed Reality as a new language

This project confirms how Mixed Reality on Meta Quest can become an effective tool for communicating architecture, culture, and territory. It is not just about visualizing 3D models, but about building real narrative experiences, where every element – audio, animation, interaction – contributes to guiding the user.

Metagate continues to position itself as a creative laboratory capable of transforming complex content into immersive experiences, demonstrating how technology can make cultural heritage more accessible, understandable, and engaging.